SEATTLE- On Wednesday (August 14, 2024), Alaska Airlines (AS) flight attendants rejected the contract by voting against a new labor agreement that promised substantial immediate pay increases.
The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA announced the rejection of the deal, which would have provided average raises exceeding 24%.
Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants Reject Contract
The tentative agreement, reached in June, offered comprehensive benefits including boarding pay and back pay. It proposed average pay hikes of approximately 32% over three years.
Following the vote, the union declared, “There is more work to do.” They plan to conduct a member survey to identify key issues before resuming negotiations.
Alaska Airlines responded to the outcome, stating its commitment to achieving an agreement that acknowledges the crucial role of flight attendants while supporting the airline’s long-term success.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic halted most labor negotiations, airline workers across the industry have intensified their demands for improved pay and working conditions. In recent years, these negotiations have significantly impacted airlines’ two largest cost factors: salaries and fuel.
Pilots at major carriers successfully secured new contracts over the past two years. However, other airline employees continue to pursue enhanced compensation packages.
Other US Carriers Attendants Deals
On July 19, 2024, American Airlines (AA) reached a tentative agreement with its flight attendants union. The union members are currently in the process of voting on the ratification of this new contract.
APFA National President Julie Hedrick announced significant benefits for Flight Attendants. The agreement addresses compensation, work rules, and retroactive pay. If approved, it will inject billions of additional dollars into Flight Attendant compensation and work rules.
The APFA Board of Directors and Executive Committee will review the tentative agreement. Hedrick credits the 28,000 Flight Attendants’ active participation for this achievement. Their efforts included numerous picketing events, media engagement, and public outreach.
A crucial factor was the 99.47% ‘yes’ vote for strike authorization. This overwhelming support pressured American Airlines management to address scheduling and economic concerns.
Hedrick emphasized the effectiveness of strikes and strike threats in achieving favorable contract terms. The agreement marks a significant milestone in the ongoing negotiations between Flight Attendants and American Airlines.
The airline views the agreement as a reflection of the flight attendants’ hard work and dedication. American Airlines believes the contract terms are both fair and competitive within the industry.
President of America, Joe Biden congratulated Flight Attendants and welcomed the new agreement between AA and AFPA.
United Airlines (UA), meanwhile, remains engaged in ongoing negotiations with its flight attendants’ union. The talks aim to establish a new contract that addresses the workers’ concerns and aligns with the company’s operational needs.
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